Faith During Trouble

 Psalm 11: 137-144; II Thessalonians 1: 1-4, 11-12

In II Thessalonians Paul is giving thanks to the Thessalonians for their continued faith in the midst of persecution. Not only did their faith continue but it was growing abundantly along with their love for one another which is also increasing. It’s because of their steadfastness and growth of faith that Paul boasts about them to other churches. Paul continues to pray great things for them that they may be empowered by God and made worthy – deserving of God’s call. He prays also that by God’s power they can fulfill every good resolve and work of faith they strive to achieve. Paul prays this in order that the name of Christ be glorified in them. This is followed by, “and you in him.” – this glory we have reflect back to Christ according to the grace given to us by God through Christ’s work on the cross.

Another who struggles with trouble but keeps the faith in God’s law is the Psalmist in Psalms 119. He declares that the Lord is righteous in God’s judgements and decrees. He also finds strength in God’s faithfulness. The Psalmist humbles himself as God’s servant who loves God’s promise which has been well tried. Though he considers himself small and despised by his foes who forget God’s laws – yet he himself will not forget God’s precepts. His faith comes out as he boasts in confidence that God’s righteousness is everlasting, and God’s law is the truth. Even though trouble and anguish have come upon him, he is keeping his faith in God’s word, promises, and law. He even says that God’s commandments are his delight. In verse 144 he states the righteousness of God for the seventh time in this passage. To this he clings to during his time of trouble. All he asks for in this passage is for understanding – not particularly deliverance here but to understand – perhaps know why he is going through this trouble even though he is faithful. He asks this, “that I may live.” I see this asking for the endurance and steadfastness that the Thessalonians have – that by better understanding he too can increase in faith during this time of trouble.

May we understand during troubling times that God will pull us through and that by keeping our faith we can truly live by glorifying God, believing that God can make something good come out of it.  Amen

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